Planning a family day out in the Royal County? Meath is packed with castles, farms, forests and beaches to explore with kids of all ages. Here’s our updated round-up of the top 10 things to do with kids in Meath.
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#1. The Hill of Tara
Climb the Hill of Tara, the famous ancient ceremonial and burial site near Skryne, and let the kids imagine being an ancient King or Queen of the Royal County. The views across the surrounding countryside are spectacular. There’s a public car park and toilets close to the site, plus a coffee shop where you can warm up afterwards. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on leads at all times.
#2. Sonairte
Visit Sonairte, the National Ecology Centre in Laytown, an interactive visitor centre promoting ecological awareness. It’s a lovely day out with kids — enjoy the Nature Trail and River Walk, or browse the eco-friendly products in the Eco Shop. Don’t miss the beautiful walled Organic Gardens, which date back to the mid-1800s. Sonairte runs family events throughout the year, including an Apple Festival in October.
#3. Trim Castle
Did you know Trim Castle took more than 30 years to build back in the 12th century? It’s a fascinating place to explore and famously served as a backdrop for the Oscar-winning film Braveheart. It’s the largest Anglo-Norman castle in Ireland, and guided tours of the grounds and keep are available. There are admission fees for both, so it’s worth checking current prices before you go. Bear in mind that access for buggies is restricted.
You might also enjoy reading 10 of the Best Castles in Ireland to Visit with Kids
#4. Beaches in Meath
Meath has just seven miles of coastline, but there are some great beaches to enjoy with the family.
- Bettystown Beach is a beautiful sandy beach, great for swimming or a long walk. Keep an eye out for the annual sandcastle competition here.
- Laytown is a great beach for families and dogs, and you can drive onto the beach year-round.
- Mornington Strand has soft sand dunes and is a popular spot for day-trippers when the weather is good.
Bring a bucket and spade, go paddling in the shallows, or let the kids loose playing chase among the dunes.
#5. Rathbeggan Lakes
Grab a fishing net and see what you can catch at Rathbeggan Lakes near Dunshaughlin. There’s a dedicated Kiddy Lake for beginners, and you can hire a rod, bait and everything else you need for a couple of hours of fishing fun.
Related: Free Things to Do in Meath and Rainy Day Activities in Meath
#6. Causey Farm
Explore the bog at Causey Farm in Fordstown, Navan. Meet the animals and enjoy a taste of traditional Irish farm life — learn how to bog jump, make a rope, and even try your hand at milking a cow. Causey Farm runs activity programmes for children and adults throughout the year, along with seasonal events such as Fairy and Elf Fairs, Summer Family Days, and a spooky Hallowe’en Experience, all making for a memorable day out with the kids.
#7. Mullaghmeen Forest Park
Take a long stroll through Mullaghmeen Forest Park near Oldcastle, spanning more than 1,000 acres with a wide variety of walking trails. The summit offers magnificent views north across Lough Sheelin and into Cavan. The forest also holds historical interest — the White Trail passes relic walls of famine-era fields, along with a Booley Hut and flax pits. There’s an extensive network of marked trails suited to every ability level.
#8. Newgrange Farm
Feed the animals, take a tractor and trailer ride, and much more at Newgrange Farm in the Boyne Valley near Slane. Kids can enjoy a range of activities, from holding a chick or cuddling kittens and puppies to exploring the straw maze, with sheep races often held on Sundays. There’s a play area with sandpits, toy tractors and go-karts, plus a separate area for under-5s. The farm also has a gift shop, coffee shop, and indoor and outdoor picnic areas.
#9. The Zone Activity Centre
Spend a few action-packed hours at The Zone Activity Centre in Navan, which offers a huge range of activities for kids and teens, including karting, paintball, laser tag, laser clay pigeon shooting, laser maze, archery and a shooting simulator. The centre can cater for large groups and is a firm favourite for birthday parties and family days out. Most activities suit children aged 8 and up, with paintball recommended for ages 13 and over.
#10. Kells
Soak up some history in the heritage town of Kells, one of the most historically fascinating spots in Ireland. Kells played a key role in Ireland’s reputation as the “Land of Saints and Scholars,” as it helped keep learning alive in Europe during the Dark Ages. This is where the famous Book of Kells was completed and kept safe for centuries. From the ancient stone crosses to St Colmcille’s House, the Round Tower and the Spire of Loyd, there’s plenty for the whole family to see. The Spire of Loyd also has a playground with good facilities for children, along with a ring fort walk and picnic tables.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best free thing to do with kids in Meath?
Many of Meath’s best attractions, including the Hill of Tara, Mullaghmeen Forest Park and the county’s beaches, are free to visit, making them great options for a budget-friendly family day out.
Are these Meath attractions suitable for toddlers and young children?
Most of the spots on this list, such as the beaches, forest parks and farms, are great for younger children, though a few — like paintball at The Zone Activity Centre — have minimum age requirements. Always check age suitability and accessibility before you travel.
Do I need to book in advance for these Meath activities?
Some attractions, such as Causey Farm’s seasonal events or activity sessions at The Zone, can get busy, so it’s worth checking ahead and booking where possible, especially during school holidays.
Is Trim Castle buggy-friendly?
Access for buggies is restricted at Trim Castle due to its historic structure, so it’s worth planning accordingly if you’re travelling with a very young child.
Related Articles
Looking for more family fun in Meath? You might also like:
- Free Things to Do with Kids in Meath
- Rainy Day Activities for Kids in Meath
- 10 of the Best Castles in Ireland to Visit with Kids
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